Fueling Technology-Based Startups in Rapid City

At Elevate Rapid City, we believe innovation is the engine of economic growth. TechForge is our mentorship program designed to strengthen technology-based startups and guide them through the critical early stages of commercialization.

Rooted in the principles of technology-based economic development (TBED), TechForge connects entrepreneurs with the resources, training, and mentorship they need to bring groundbreaking ideas to market.

How TechForge Works

TechForge leverages proven regional programs to give startups the right support at the right time:

• NSF I-Corps Program
  Led by North Dakota State University in partnership with SD Mines, I-Corps provides a standardized curriculum to explore the commercial potential of new technologies. Teams receive guidance during the critical customer discovery phase.

• FAST Launch
  After completing I-Corps, teams with a viable invention move into FAST Launch for the next stage of commercialization, including detailed business planning and preparation for growth.

Innovation doesn’t stop at tech. Elevate supports all small businesses and startups with training and resources to help them thrive.

• Small Business Lunch & Learns
  Practical insights from experts on topics that drive business success.

• Workforce Coffee Connections
  Conversations focused on strengthening the local talent pipeline.

• Wildfire University
  Technical training on essentials like accounting, finance, strategic planning, and product management.

Click here to view the calendar and sign up for an upcoming event!

For tailored support, connect with Kallie Ruland, Business Development Manager. She provides one-on-one business retention and expansion support, B2B mentorship matchmaking, and connections to additional service providers.

Whether you’re building the next great tech company or strengthening a small business, Elevate Rapid City is here to help. Together, we can forge the future of innovation in Rapid City.